Health Glossary - For Everyone

Fluid retention
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What is fluid retention?

Fluid retention (oedema) happens when fluid isn't removed from tissues in the body by the kidneys and urinary system, instead it just accumulates excessively and swelling occurs.

The lymphatic system, which is a network of vessel, tissues and organs which is involved in the transport of substances, such as fluid in and out of cells. The urinary system, which includes the kidneys excretes the excessive fluids out of the body and the hormone that controls fluid in the the body is aldosterone, one of the hormones associated with the adrenal glands on the kidneys.

Fluid retention is defined as being:

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Important fluid retention facts



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Why fluid retention is important

Generally, fluid retention happens for a variety of reasons:

Most cases of fluid rentention are not serious, but in some cases, fluid retention can also be symptomatic of serious medical conditions such as heart, kidney or liver disease.

 

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Last reviewed: 21 August 2007 || Last updated: 29 January 2010

 

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references

 

More information

To learn more, go to the following web sites:


 

NOTE: Mega doses of any type of vitamin, mineral, amino acid or herbal supplement cannot cure illnesses and in fact can be very dangerous and produce toxic side effects and interfere with medicine you are taking. Always ensure you consult your doctor before taking any type of complementary supplements.
Disclaimer: This guide is not intended to be used for diagnostic or prescriptive purposes. For any treatment or diagnosis of illness, please see your doctor.

 

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